Land · Roots · Security
The morning after the Santa Ana winds, a tall eucalyptus lies across two driveways, its shallow roots torn up like a rug. Next to it, an old oak has lost a few branches and is still standing. Its roots run as wide underground as its branches above. Some winds come whether you are ready or not. What is holding you in the ground?
Paul says he kneels to pray for the believers in Ephesus (Ephesians 3:14). “that he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, that you may be strengthened with power through his Spirit in the inner person, that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith, to the end that you, being rooted and grounded in love,” (Ephesians 3:16-17 WEB). The Greek for “dwell” is katoikeō, to settle in and live.
Paul has used the language of ground for love, and now he measures it in every direction. “may be strengthened to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and height and depth, and to know Christ’s love which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.” (Ephesians 3:18-19 WEB). Paul ends by praising the one who is able to do far more than we ask (Ephesians 3:20).
Spiritual Move: Body Prayer. Kneel, as Paul did. Pray these verses aloud for one person by name, putting their name in place of “you.” Stay on your knees for a few minutes after.
Photo by John Tracey on Unsplash